National Investment Risk Day: Reflecting on Speculation's Rise in Investing

National Investment Risk Day: A Celebration of Speculation

National Investment Risk Day (NIRD), hosted by Toews Asset Management, is a significant event that invites investors to reflect on their investment practices. This year, experts will convene to discuss how speculation, hype, and wishful thinking have increasingly permeated mainstream investing, becoming more sophisticated and widely recognized across the industry.

The Rise of Speculative Investing

In the past, speculation was often associated with fringe markets and high-stakes gambling. However, as the market has evolved, these trends have gained a foothold among well-established investment firms. The role of influential financial names in promoting speculative investment ideas has blurred the lines between sound investing practices and risky, impulsive choices.

This year's panel features a powerhouse of voices, including Phillip Toews, CEO and Portfolio Manager at Toews Asset Management, alongside industry luminaries such as Michael Gayad from the Free Markets ETF, and Tim Maurer, Chief Advisory Officer at SignatureFD. They will scrutinize the most notable investment ideas of 2025, listing their worst contenders based on the criteria of flawed logic and poor judgement.

Insights from the Experts

The panel aims to provide investors with key insights into navigating the treacherous waters of investment speculation:

1. Identifying Speculative Investments: It is crucial for investors to discern between what is genuinely promising and what is merely a trend driven by buzz. The discussion will emphasize methods to evaluate the substance behind investment opportunities.

2. The Case for Cautious Speculation: While speculation should generally be approached with caution, the panel will offer scenarios where limited speculative investments can be tolerated and even beneficial in a well-balanced portfolio.

3. Assessing Market Bubbles: Drawing historical parallels, expert opinions will explore whether today's market resembles the bubble environment of the late 1990s. This assessment will enable investors to make more informed decisions based on empirical evidence.

4. Due Diligence is Key: Toews highlights the importance of conducting thorough due diligence before committing to investments. Recognizing that risk management is equally critical as pursuing profit, investors are encouraged to look beyond the headlines and examine fundamental aspects of their potential investments.

5. Evaluating Investment Risks: Understanding personal risk tolerance is essential for creating a robust portfolio. Advisors and investors will be urged to ensure their investment choices align with their long-term financial goals and comfort levels.

6. Planning for Market Contingencies: The discussion will also focus on developing strategies for unpredictable market fluctuations. Investors should contemplate the implications of rapidly rising trends and have plans in place for potential downward shifts.

7. Encouraging Dialogue: To strengthen investor-advisor relationships, the need for transparent communication about the risks associated with unforeseen events will be emphasized. Engaging in candid conversations can mitigate surprises and enhance trust.

Final Thoughts

Eben Burr, President of Toews Asset Management, summarizes the essence of National Investment Risk Day: “In an age characterized by complexity and unpredictability, it’s imperative for investors to adopt a grounded, rational approach.” The NIRD serves as a vital reminder for all investors to reassess their strategies, emphasize long-term stability and reflect on how their investment practices align with their overall life purposes.

For those interested in deepening their understanding of these issues, Toews Asset Management invites participants to join their live, virtual panel session on January 20th to engage in this critical dialogue.

To learn more about investment risk management strategies, visit Toews Asset Management.